© 2014 Unitarian Universalist Association. Developmental Editor: Pat Kahn
Chalice Children delves deep into our Unitarian Universalist faith. It strives not just to teach about our faith, but also to provide experiences around the strength of community, the wonder and awe that transcend everyday understanding, and life issues we all share. Early childhood (the years between ages 2 and 5) is filled with curiosity and wonder. In a group setting, with loving adult guides, young children can engage in spiritual seeking, develop their openness to sharing, and experience the benefit of a supportive community. Their time in Chalice Children can set a pattern for the rest of their lives and bring lasting benefits.
Contents
Acknowledgments
From Chalice Children
We gratefully acknowledge the following: Welleran Poltarnees and Laughing Elephant Publishing for permission to use the House Blessing in Session 2 Deborah H....
Preface
From Chalice Children
The first edition of Chalice Children, published in 1998, was my first UUA curriculum. It was an attempt to make the Sunday morning time for preschoolers relate to Unitarian Universalist identity....
Introduction
From Chalice Children
The Program There are no extra pieces in the universe. Everyone is here because he or she has a place to fill, and every piece must fit itself into the big jigsaw puzzle. — Deepak Chopra Young families come to Unitarian Universalist congregations to enrich their spiritual lives, to gain resources...
Program Structure
From Chalice Children
Each session is built around a predictable structure: Free play, a time invaluable for meeting friends, making individual choices, exploring the environment, sharing time together, and building a sense of belonging and comfort with the group and the meeting room space. Transition to Circle Time,...
Leader Guidelines
From Chalice Children
As you adapt sessions to fit your resources and the needs of the group, take care to preserve the intent of a session and its purpose in the overall program. Read each session at least several days before leading it....
Implementation
From Chalice Children
Every congregation has its own approach to structuring religious education. You can implement this program with any model your congregation uses....
Before You Start
From Chalice Children
Internet access and the availability of a laptop can enrich many of the sessions, which include links to videos, music, and websites. Online resources are supplemental; they are not required for leading any session....
Resources
From Chalice Children
Posters, Songs, and Rhymes for Chalice Children Songs, chalice-lighting words, and rhymes are introduced in Session 1 for use throughout the program....
Facilitator Feedback Form
From Chalice Children
We welcome your critique of this program, as well as your suggestions. Thank you for your feedback! Your input improves programs for all of our congregations....
Participant Feedback Form
From Chalice Children
We welcome your critique of this program, as well as your suggestions. Thank you for your feedback! Your input improves programs for all of our congregations. Please forward your feedback to: Resource Development Office Ministries and Faith Development Unitarian Universalist Association 24...
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